The Dorr Township Board Tuesday night approved a tax abatement request from Brick N Mortar LLC, only the second such agreement this board has made since December 2012.
Brick N Mortar, a tool and die shop in the industrial park, was granted seven-year tax break of up to 50% on his property taxes and for two years on personal property, which usually means equipment.
Before the abatement was granted, the board first had to establish the industrial park off 142nd Avenue near the U.S.-131 expressway as an industrial development district.
Both votes went 5-1, with Trustee Patty Senneker dissenting both times.
It was noted that Brick N Mortar has between nine and 25 employees at its facility on Walnut Dale Drive.
Since this board was seated three years ago, only Wonderland Tire has received an industrial facilities tax exemption authorized by the Michigan Legislature in 1974. The idea behind tax abatements is to entice new business to come to town and to provide relief for businesses that are expanding and creating more jobs in the community.
Though Trustee John Tuinstra expressed misgivings by saying, “Is it fair to established businesses like Dorr Industries?”
Supervisor Jeff Miling replied that every industry within a designated district has the right to apply for a tax abatement and it is up to the elected township officials to decide whether or not they are granted.
PHOTOS: Allegan County Economic Development Director Nora Balgoyen was on hand for the two public hearings on the industrial district and tax abatement. She was present to answer any questions about the process.
This is the industrial development district approved by the Dorr Township Board, including the highlighted Brick N Mortar tool and die company.